Regulating Blood Glucose

Question 1

Explain how homeostasis is achieved through high blood sugar (7mks)

Answer 1

1) high blood sugar triggered through eating carb rich meal
2) beta cells of pancreas stimulated to release insulin into blood
3) insulin causes body cells to take up more glucose
4) liver takes up glucose and stored it as glycogen
5) blood glucose level reduces to a certain point
6) stimulus for insulin release diminishes as part of negative feedback
7) homeostasis is achieved

Question 2

Explain how homeostasis is achieved through low blood sugar (6mks)

Answer 2

1) low blood sugar triggered by skipping a meal
2) alpha cells of pancreas stimulated causing pancreas to release glucagon into blood
3) liver breaks down glycogen and releases glucose into blood
4) blood glucose level rises to a point
5) stimulus for glucagon release diminishes
6) homeostasis achieved